Cupping in Gig Harbor

Cupping therapy in Gig Harbor is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which a therapist puts special cups on your skin for a few minutes to create suction. People get it for many purposes, including to help with pain, inflammation, blood flow, relaxation and well-being, and as a type of deep-tissue massage.

CUPPING in Gig Harbor

Cupping therapy is a part of Chinese Medicine and has been for over 2,500 years along with herbology and Acupuncture. Today glass cups of varying sizes are used but originally animal horn was used, later brass then ceramic and bamboo cups were used.

Cupping can be likened to a deep tissue massage but the practitioner applies heat in a cup which is then placed in most cases on the back. A vacuum effect is generated by the heat and this draws the skin up into the cup.

BENEFITS OF CUPPING

• Move fresh blood to the area
• Releases toxins
• Stimulates acupuncture points
• Increases circulation of blood and lymph
• Relaxation of over tight muscles
• Reduction of inflammation

This therapy will leave noticeable marks on the skin that look like bruises and these marks are sometimes known as “cup kisses”. They may look alarming they are not painful and they will fade in 3 to 7 days.

Generally cupping is used in treatment for aches and pains of varying kinds such as low back and leg pain, fibromyalgia, and neck and shoulder tension. Cupping also benefits the lungs in respiratory problems like bronchitis, asthma, coughs and such as it helps open up the chest. Cupping is also of use in digestive problems, stomach aches, vomiting, diarrhea and even menstrual problems.